MY 2020 RETREAT
I know how 2020 shocked us all. Many of us lost our loved ones, jobs/businesses, cancelled numerous trips/events, and many more. It was truly an unbelievable year in almost the worst kind of way for most, it was a good year for others anyway.
Intentionally, I started this gist by looking back at the year 2020, so you understand my lack of excitement for 2021. I was numb about the new year until midnight of 31st December when I caught the vibe from the crossover night activities.
It is probably this lack of excitement that necessitated that we move our annual retreat. As a Family of Creatives, we usually make a road trip to several locations, while having fun and bonding. In 2019, we went from Kaduna to Ghana and back by road. It was one of the most frustrating trips I have made as a Nigerian to another country, top on the list of such trips is my first visit to Germany.
So, this year, like always, our road trip began in Kaduna, and took us to Cross-River, Akwa-Ibom and Lagos states. It was one of the most exciting experiences I have had in such a long time, and provided the perfect launch pad for the new year.
Our first stop in Cross River state was Obudu, we spent our first night at the town while waiting for other persons to arrive from different parts of the country, we then proceeded to Obudu Cattle Ranch, that was after we had a breakfast of very tasty beans-cake, tea/pap, fried yam, and plantain. That meal was a feast that I remember with a smile.
I have always heard about Obudu Cattle Ranch but have never really been super excited about visiting, and didn’t think that I would in 2020. Imagine my shock when I got there and was totally blown away. The Holy Mountain took my breath away, and left me awe struck. I also loved the African Hut, Cable ride, and the natural swimming pool. I kept thinking how we under-use that facility.
After several days at the ranch, we continued to Akwa-Ibom – the Land of Promise. The first thing I noticed on arrival was the Christmas decorations, I almost felt like Santa would appear any minute. On the first night, we lodged at the exotic Aliz Ambrose Hotel, and enjoyed a night of luxury. The next day, we toured the city, and ended up at the grand Le Meridien Hotel (now Ibom Icon Hotel and Golf Resort). The magnificent hotel which is situated amidst rich palm forest vegetation, stands on 174 hectares of land. I have never really been so captivated by the game of golf until I saw the lush greens of the world-class 18-hole golf course. The course, facilities and cuisine left me with so many good memories.
To wrap-up our stay in Akwa-Ibom, we visited a restaurant (I can’t remember the name) opposite the Central Park, where we had this mouth-watering vegetable soup with pounded yam. It wasn’t just the taste that caught my attention, I was amazed at the energy the Restaurant owner – Jane exuded. At her restaurant meals are made on the spot, every order is prepared fresh with your specifications. Trust me, I took my time to enjoy the periwinkles, stock fish and orishirishi.
LA CAMPAGNE TROPICANA BEACH RESORT
We saved the best experience for last. From Akwa-Ibom we moved to Lagos where we stayed at the La Campagne Tropicana Beach Resort. After staying at Obudu Cattle Ranch and Le Meridien Hotel, I just didn’t think any experience would beat those until we arrived at La Campagne.
The experience was mind-blowing. The boat rides, shell picking, beach games, forest tour, etc were exceptional. Did I mention that we stayed in this beautiful Chalet with African décor? Plus, we saw some celebs during our stay (I didn’t take any pictures with them ooo). I had to drag myself to pack and check-out when the time came.
This week-long retreat was packed with so much fun and learning. We had life-changing sessions on MIND-MAPPING and COMMUNICATION. As a result of these sessions, I have made better plans/choices for the year, I look forward to sharing the outcomes with you as the year progresses.
I think that whether it is as fun-packed (as mine) or not, 365 days is a long time to leave to chance, a retreat is a great way to start strong. It is a time we can share with loved ones (especially now that the pandemic puts restrictions on gatherings), bond and plan. It is also a sort of reward for working hard all year, something to look forward to. For me, the 2021 retreat is already loading.
What did you do in preparation for 2021? Reply in the comment box.
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